I don't like your attitude

[Paddleslowly]

Ds and I are on holiday the trip of a lifetime staying with family as a very generous present. Ds doesn't want to go home but I politely said to him that we have to go home as things are not that simple. He replies back " well they never are with you" I was fuming and got up to go into the kitchen and he said " night" in such a nasty tone whilst he sat there still on the sofa. Is it me or is this him pushing his luck he has upset me with his shit attitude!

It's bloody hard work at times isn't it?
My 15 year old DS was much harder at that age than he is now so they don't all get worse!

Stay calm, be firm and don't engage in any form of debate if a final decision has been made and explained.

If he kicks off - verbally or however - walk away repeating that there is no room for debate.

I don't nag mine about homework but have made it quite clear that school will be informed that they had the time, opportunity and offers of help and it's their fault if not done.

Also, when things between you are good, have a sit down chat with no distractions about how you treat him with respect and expect the same back. You are the parent and he needs to understand that there are some things he simply cannot comprehend yet due to lack of experience of life, and it's your job to guide him through those. Some aspects of life are that you have to put up and shut up when told - it carries on into adult life, we all have to make compromises and you're teaching him how to make informed, comprehensive judgements.

I would have no hesitation taking mine aside in any circumstance to berate them if their behaviour warranted it - people will judge you whatever course of action you take (it's natural) so go with the one that you believe in. Gut instinct is rarely wrong...